At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team, ensure client satisfaction, and enhance accounting processes.
- Company: Join Quest Accounting Services, a dynamic firm focused on growth and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy performance bonuses, structured training, 25 days leave, and a fun team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a values-driven environment with clear career progression.
- Qualifications: AAT qualified or part/fully qualified ACCA/CIMA/ACA with 5+ years experience.
- Other info: Full UK driving licence required; potential to advance to Finance Manager.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 42000 Β£ per year.
Lead, Inspire & Advance Your Accounting Career β Join Quest Accounting Services, a Growing Firm in Milton Keynes as a Senior Accountant! Clear progression and a people-first culture await you.
Senior Accountant
Milton Keynes, MK9 β Office based role
- Full-time, permanent (9am β 5:30pm)
- Β£37,000 β Β£42,000 per annum + bonus
- Full driving licence required
Please note: Applicants must be authorised to work in the UK
Quest Accounting Services is a dynamic and forward-thinking accountancy practice on an exciting growth journey. Our firm is built on professional excellence, collaborative working, and a commitment to client-first thinking. With a vibrant team culture, we support modern, flexible working and continuously invest in our people, tools, and processes to enhance both our services and our team experience. If you\βre ready to thrive in a values-driven business with a clear vision, we want to hear from you.
The Role
As a Senior Accountant, you\βll step into a vital leadership position, helping to shape our operations and client services. This is a perfect opportunity for someone ready to take the next step in their career.. You\βll be integral to ensuring accuracy, compliance, and client satisfaction, while also influencing how we grow and scale.
People Leadership & Client Engagement:
- Supervise and mentor junior staff, ensuring quality and development
- Allocate workloads and drive team performance
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and a culture of accountability
- Communicate complex financial matters in a client-friendly way
- Maintain high standards of service, trust, and professionalism
Strategy, Delivery & Operational Improvement
- Identify and implement process enhancements across the practice
- Align team activity with wider firm goals and best practices
- Manage deadlines and peak workloads efficiently
- Ensure timely and accurate delivery of client outputs
Technical & Compliance Expertise
- Lead the preparation and review of VAT returns, statutory accounts, Corporation and Self-Assessment tax
- Oversee cloud accounting (Xero, QuickBooks, FreeAgent), reconciliations, and control accounts
- Deliver advisory support on tax efficiency, forecasting, and long-term planning
What We Offer:
- Performance-based bonus: annually, based on client satisfaction, team leadership, and delivery of key financial targets
- Structured training and tailored personal development plans
- Support for ACCA/CIMA/ACA qualifications, CPD courses, and leadership training
- Auto-enrolment pension (after 3 months)
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata)
- Access to cutting-edge accounting tools and cloud software
- Direct influence on firm-wide initiatives and service innovation
- A collaborative, inclusive, and fun team environment
- Potential to grow into a Finance Manager or Practice Lead role
The Ideal Candidate
- AAT qualified or ACCA/CIMA/ACA part/fully qualified
- 5+ years\β experience in accountancy practice, including senior-level exposure
- Skilled in VAT, Corporation Tax, Self-Assessment, and statutory accounts
- Strong knowledge of cloud accounting (QuickBooks, Xero, FreeAgent)
- Confident in reviewing junior staff work and supporting team development
- Experienced in management accounts, forecasting, tax planning, and R&D claims
- Accurate, organised, and deadline-driven with high ethical standards
- Excellent communication skills with a client-focused mindset
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel when needed
If you\βre looking to make a long-term impact while growing with a forward-thinking firm, we\βd love to hear from you.
How to apply for the role:
If you have the skills and experience required for this position, click βapplyβ today and check your inbox for an email providing more information on how to complete your application and provide any other supporting documents.
You must be authorised to work in the UK. No agencies, please.
Other suitable skills and experience include Client Manager, Practice Accountant, Accounts Senior, Audit Senior, Tax Consultant, Accounting Supervisor, Business Advisor, Portfolio Accountant, ACA/ACCA Accountant.
Senior Accountant in Milton Keynes employer: Quest Accounting Services Ltd
Contact Detail:
Quest Accounting Services Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Senior Accountant in Milton Keynes
β¨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the accounting field, especially those who work at Quest Accounting Services or similar firms. Attend local accounting events or join online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the company culture.
β¨Tip Number 2
Research the latest trends in cloud accounting software like Xero, QuickBooks, and FreeAgent. Being knowledgeable about these tools will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you are proactive and ready to contribute from day one.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences and how you've mentored junior staff in previous roles. Highlight specific examples where your guidance led to improved performance or client satisfaction, as this aligns with the responsibilities of the Senior Accountant position.
β¨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's values and mission. During your interactions, whether in interviews or networking, demonstrate how your personal values align with theirs, particularly around client-first thinking and collaborative working.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Accountant in Milton Keynes
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in accountancy, particularly focusing on your leadership roles and technical skills in VAT, Corporation Tax, and cloud accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the firm. Mention specific examples of how you've led teams, improved processes, or enhanced client satisfaction in previous positions.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your qualifications such as AAT, ACCA, CIMA, or ACA. If you are part or fully qualified, make sure to mention this prominently, as it is a key requirement for the role.
Showcase Soft Skills: In your application, emphasise your communication skills and client-focused mindset. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated complex financial matters to clients or mentored junior staff.
How to prepare for a job interview at Quest Accounting Services Ltd
β¨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Accountant, you'll be expected to lead and mentor junior staff. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past, highlighting your ability to inspire and develop others.
β¨Demonstrate Technical Expertise
Be ready to discuss your experience with VAT returns, Corporation Tax, and cloud accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks. Brush up on recent changes in tax regulations and be prepared to explain how you ensure compliance and accuracy in your work.
β¨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since client engagement is key, practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. This will show your ability to communicate effectively with clients and maintain high standards of service.
β¨Align with Company Values
Research Quest Accounting Services' culture and values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding collaboration, client-first thinking, and professional excellence.